Tuesday, Sept. 12

Hello families! Today was a very good day! We got so much done and worked very hard. We are reading a story titled A Fine, Fine, School and they kids are loving it. We talked about how too much of something you like is not always a good thing. We are focusing on main idea and details.

In ELA we are looking at the subjects and predicates of sentences and how complete sentences need both. We need to have a WHO or WHAT (Subject) and a WHAT HAPPENED (predicate). As we learn about this, students will then need to apply it. When they write, they need to reread and make sure they have complete sentences.

In Math we are focusing on division. The main focus today was realizing that division is the inverse of multiplication. We worked on creating 4 math sentences with an array picture or given the three fact family numbers. Some students still struggle with creating the division sentence. I continue to remind them in division we begin with the TOTAL or the bigger number, then put them into smaller groups. Students work on their facts using the i-pad and other games in class. However, in third grade mastery of multiplication and division is essential for continued success. A lot is to be said for old fashioned repeation and memorization. Choose three facts a night. Show them to your child as they walk down the hall, sitting at the dinner table, as they wait for the bus. When they get those 3 correct and quickly, then move on to 3 other facts. Soon, they will know them all. It takes work, but it will be worth it. Once they know them, they will know them for life!

Students are working on Daily 5 packets during reading time. These packets contain independent work that focuses on practicing spelling, practicing the grammar skills through our Journeys workbook pages, writing cursive, journal writing, and independent reading. This first week, students are very unlikely to get through all the tasks given to them. This is okay. As we learn to build our independent work stamina, we will be able to get a lot more accomplished. As the end of the week, they will turn in their work for me to check.

Thank you to all the parents who have signed up for the REMIND app. I have received several messages and try to respond to them as soon as possible. Please use this method of communication if it works for you. If you haven't signed up yet, please do! Have a great evening!